Generators & Regulators: Other Land Rover Discovery III

CHARGE WARNING INDICATOR

Charge Warning Indicator illuminates as a bulb check when the ignition switch is turned to position II and extinguishes when the engine is running and the generator is producing normal power. If the generator is not producing normal power or stops turning the indicator will illuminate. Generators are interfaced to the instrument cluster via the Body Electronic Control Module (BECM).

When the engine is started inside the generator the magnetized rotor turns within the stator windings, generating 3 phase alternating current and a voltage that rises rapidly with rotor speed. The field diode in the rectifier pack converts the alternating current into direct current flowing through the field windings. This causes an increase in the magnetic influence of the rotor, resulting in energy output higher than the battery level. The field current increases with rotor speed and thus increases the generated current and voltage until the generator is producing electrical output at an energy level higher than the battery.

The regulator is located within the generator assembly.

BATTERY DISCONNECT/CONNECT (DISCOVERY II)

Disconnect/Connect

1. Release fasteners and remove battery cover. (Scheme 12)
2. Disconnect negative battery cable.
3. Clean battery terminal and coat with petroleum jelly.
4. Install negative battery cable.
5. Install battery cover and secure fasteners.

Scheme 12

BATTERY DISCONNECT/CONNECT (RANGE ROVER)

1. Release 3 fasteners securing battery cover. Remove cover. (Scheme 13)
2. Remove 2 nuts and one bolt securing battery clamp. Remove clamp.
3. Disconnect negative battery cable.
4. During reconnect, coat battery clamp and terminal with petroleum jelly.
5. Reconnect negative battery cable.

Scheme 13

Back-Up Battery

Vehicle may be equipped with a back-up battery. The purpose is to power the anti-theft alarm if the main vehicle battery is disconnected. If the main vehicle battery is to be removed it is essential to adopt the following procedure before disconnecting the terminals in order to prevent the alarm sounding: Turn the ignition to ON and then OFF position. Disconnect the battery WITHIN 17 seconds (if the battery is not disconnected WITHIN 17 seconds, the alarm will sound).

DRIVE BELT TENSION

A serpentine drive belt is used to drive all accessories. Accessory drive belt tension is controlled by a belt tensioner. Check accessory drive belt for signs of splits, fraying, oil contamination and wear. Replace as necessary.

PRELIMINARY CHARGING SYSTEM CHECK

Ensure battery is in good condition and has a circuit voltage of at least 12.3-12.6 volts. Ensure battery connections are clean and tight. Ensure battery charging area is well ventilated and that there are no open flames or sparks. Check condition of accessory drive belt. Ensure generator connections are clean and tight. Check for parasitic drain on battery.

CHARGE WARNING INDICATOR DOES NOT ILLUMINATE

Note. Discovery Series II testing information is not available from manufacturer.

Range Rover

If charge warning indicator does not illuminate with the engine off and ignition switch in II position, check bulb. If bulb is okay, check Body Electronic Control Module (BECM) connector terminals, instrument cluster and the datalink between them. Perform repairs as necessary. See WIRING DIAGRAMS .